1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2010 Acura RDX
To start off, 2010 Acura RDX is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Acura RDX (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Acura RDX weights approximately 398 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Acura RDX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Acura RDX (352 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2010 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2010 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 240 | 2010 Acura RDX | |
| Make | Volvo | Acura |
| Model | 240 | RDX |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1869 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1654 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2649 mm |
